Young Artists Revive the Golden Era: Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago's Drawing Competition Celebrates Sikh Empire Legacy Amid Inspiring Community Gathering

Punjab 1799–1849 Comes Alive: Heartwarming Youth Art Showcase Lights Up the Windy City

Colors of Courage; Over 30 Young Talents Revive Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Golden Era on Canvas

Chicago, IL: In the heart of Schaumburg, Illinois, on a crisp Sunday morning of January 18, 2026, the National India Hub transformed into a vibrant canvas of history, creativity, and cultural pride. The Punjabi Cultural Society (PCS)  of Chicago hosted its second annual Youth Art and Drawing Competition, drawing over 30 young participants from elementary, middle, and high school levels. The theme “Punjab in the Era 1799–1849,” spotlighting the majestic Sikh Empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh invited children to reimagine a pivotal chapter in Punjabi history through pencils, colors, and boundless imagination.

This wasn't merely an art contest; it was a living bridge between generations, connecting diaspora youth to their ancestral roots. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the legendary "Lion of Punjab," unified the region after capturing Lahore in 1799, forging a secular empire renowned for religious tolerance, military prowess, and cultural flourishing until its fall to British forces in 1849. The young artists depicted scenes of grandeur: fortified Lahore, golden domes of the Harmandir Sahib shimmering under Ranjit Singh's patronage, warriors on horseback, lush fields, and symbols of Sikh sovereignty. Their works captured the empire's essence vibrant, resilient, and inclusive—reminding attendees that history isn't distant but alive in every brushstroke.

The event buzzed with energy from the outset. PCS leaders warmly welcomed families, with opening remarks highlighting the organization's mission. President Bikram Singh Sohi, Vice President Gurlal Singh Bhattal, and Executive Secretary Gurpreet Singh Sidhu were joined by dedicated organizer Paramvir Kaur, whose tireless efforts made the day seamless. As the clock ticked, children hunched over drawing sheets using provided templates while others unleashing freehand creativity while parents cheered quietly.

A highlight came when Dr. Primal Kaur, the Chairwoman of PCS for 2026, took the stage. A distinguished biotech executive and Senior Vice President at AbbVie, with over 15 years driving global advancements in immunology, neuroscience, and specialty care, Dr. Kaur delivered an inspiring address. Engaging the children directly, she asked, "When I say Punjab, what does it mean to you?" Responses poured in: "My culture," "Where my family lives," "Vibrant colors," "Music and fields." She praised their imagination, noting how each drawing told a personal story rooted in heritage. "Keep drawing, keep painting, keep dreaming," she urged. "Keep Punjab proud because the culture grows brighter as all of you grow into young brilliant human beings." Her words resonated deeply, blending professional gravitas with heartfelt cultural passion.

The program paused for a special guest: Illinois State Senator Karina Villa, representing the 25th District. A lifelong West Chicago resident, former school social worker, and the first Latina to hold her seat, Senator Villa arrived despite a busy morning schedule. She spoke passionately about children as the future, drawing parallels between her journey flipping a challenging district through determination and the resilience of immigrant communities. In a charged moment, she addressed current national tensions, emphasizing that celebrating history and unity is an act of resistance. "Nothing is impossible," she declared, urging youth to work harder, build alliances, and never accept limits. Her presence added civic weight to the cultural celebration, underscoring how Punjabi values of hard work and community align with broader American ideals.

Judging was rigorous and fair. Experts included Karan Sohi, a data scientist at Anthem with two decades in the community; Manpriya Kaur, an educator with 18 years in Chicago public schools; and Manpreet Singh, an artist, e-learning developer, and creator of LittleSikhs.com. They evaluated originality, historical accuracy, technique, and emotional impact.

The prize ceremony unfolded with joy and applause.

·         Elementary School (Template Category): 1st Place to Khem Kaur Sohi, 2nd to Ayan Singh, 3rd to Sidak Mangat.

·         Freehand Category: 1st to Bani Gill, 2nd to Prabhdeep Singh Maken, 3rd to Ekam Singh.

·         Middle School: 1st to Ramneek Gill, 2nd to Anmoldeep Singh Maken, 3rd to Mohkam Singh Sohi.

·         High School: 1st to Avni Kaur, 2nd to Keeret Gill, 3rd to Saihaj Sidhu.

Amid cheers and group photos, PCS also recognized last year's declamation contest winners, distributing certificates. The atmosphere crackled with pride young winners beaming, families hugging, judges posing alongside board members.

As the event wrapped, announcements looked ahead: the flagship Rangla Punjab celebration on April 25, 2026, at Copernicus Center. PCS continues its legacy now celebrating 30+ years—of fostering Punjabi language, arts, sports, and citizenship through events like Punjabi Maa Boli Month, graduation nights, and community parades.

This competition transcended art; it nurtured identity in a globalized world. Young participants didn't just draw history they breathed life into it, ensuring the Sikh Empire's legacy of courage, harmony, and creativity endures. In a time when cultural preservation felt urgent, PCS Chicago proved that crayons and dreams can powerfully safeguard heritage for generations to come.

“Events like the PCS Drawing Competition remind us that culture is not static, it thrives when passed to the young with passion and purpose. By linking today's children to the grandeur of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's era, PCS not only preserves Punjabi pride but inspires resilience and unity in the diaspora. In an age of rapid change, such initiatives build stronger communities and brighter futures. Congratulations to all participants, organizers, and leaders your work truly colors the world with hope and heritage” said by Suresh

Bodiwala, Chairman of Asian Media USA

About Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago:

PCS Board of Directors: Dr. Primal Kaur (Honorary Chairman), Bikram Singh Sohi (President), Gurlal Singh Bhattal (Vice President), Gurpreet Singh Sidhu (Executive Secretary), Jigerdeep Singh Dhillon (Finance Secretary), Parmjot Singh Parmar (Director at Large), Amitpaul Singh Gill (IT Director), Paramvir Kaur (Women’s Empowerment Director), Tejveer Singh Soodan (Youth Director), and Kevindeep Singh Atwal (Inter-community Director)